Cyprus Airways Overview & Company Profile
Cyprus Airways is the revived flag carrier of Cyprus, operating from Larnaca International Airport (LCA) as a regional European carrier. The current airline is not a direct continuation of the historic Cyprus Airways that flew from 1947 to 2015, but rather a new entity that acquired the brand and trademarks in 2016. Originally established as Charlie Airlines Ltd by a consortium of Cypriot investors (60%) and Russia's S7 Airlines (40%), the airline was rebranded to Cyprus Airways and commenced operations with two Airbus A319 aircraft serving routes to Greece, the UK, and Russia.
The airline changed hands in June 2021 when the SJC Group, a Maltese company with operations across Africa and the Middle East (including commercial helicopter operations and maintenance), acquired Cyprus Airways. Under new ownership, CEO Paul Sies was appointed in May 2022, bringing extensive aviation leadership experience from Air Malta, Fly BMI, and Virgin Express. Sies has led a strategic transformation focused on network expansion, digital innovation, fleet modernization, and a hybrid business model that blends low-cost base fares with optional premium services.
Cyprus Airways does not hold membership in any global airline alliance. However, a codeshare partnership with Aegean Airlines (Star Alliance member) was established in June 2023, under which Aegean places its A3 code on Cyprus Airways flights to Paris, Rome, Milan, Beirut, Cairo, Yerevan, and Greek destinations, while Cyprus Airways places its CY code on Aegean flights to Greece, Madrid, and Barcelona. This partnership significantly extends the connectivity reach from Larnaca without requiring alliance membership. The airline has also provided wet-lease (ACMI) services to Aegean, deploying two A320 aircraft with crew from December 2023.
For an island nation like Cyprus, which has no land or rail connections to Europe, year-round air connectivity is critical. Cyprus experiences a pronounced 65% winter-summer seasonality curve in tourist arrivals. While low-cost carriers and charters provide peak-season capacity, Cyprus Airways positions itself as the year-round connectivity provider, slowly increasing winter destinations and frequencies to support the hospitality industry beyond the summer months.
Fleet Composition & Type Ratings
Cyprus Airways operates an all-Airbus fleet, a strategic choice that simplifies training, maintenance, and crew scheduling. The airline's fleet story is a tale of ambition meeting real-world challenges: an initial A320 backbone, an ambitious A220 expansion, and a subsequent reassessment driven by persistent engine reliability problems.
The Airbus A320-214 forms the operational backbone of Cyprus Airways. These aircraft are configured in either a single-class 180-seat economy layout (3-3 configuration) or a dual-class layout with 8 business class recliners (2-2) and 168 economy seats. Powered by CFM56-5B4/3 engines, the A320 has a cruising speed of 840 km/h and a maximum range of 6,100 km (3,300 NM), making it more than adequate for all routes on the Cyprus Airways network, from short domestic hops to Athens to medium-haul services to Paris CDG.
In 2023, Cyprus Airways began introducing the Airbus A220-300 as part of an ambitious fleet modernization programme. The airline received aircraft from lessor Azorra, including units previously operated by EgyptAir. The A220-300 offers significant operational advantages: 20% less CO2 per seat, 25% lower fuel burn, and a 50% smaller noise footprint compared to previous-generation narrowbodies. The cabin is configured in various layouts including 12 business (2-2) plus 110 economy (2-3), or an all-economy 140-seat high-density option.
However, the A220's Pratt & Whitney PW1500G geared turbofan engines have caused severe operational disruption across the global A220 fleet. Cyprus Airways has experienced recurring engine problems, extended groundings, and unexpected maintenance requirements. For a small airline with a limited fleet, even one grounded aircraft creates cascading operational disruption. By late 2025, the airline began actively evaluating A320 CEO and NEO variants as potential replacements or supplements, signalling a possible strategic pivot away from the A220. This engine reliability challenge is not unique to Cyprus Airways: airBaltic cancelled over 4,600 flights in the 2025 summer season alone due to GTF-related issues, and Air Austral has committed to replacing its A220 fleet entirely.
| Aircraft Type | Role | In Service | Routes / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbus A320-214 | Narrowbody | 2 | Primary workhorse. All European and Middle Eastern routes. CFM56 engines (reliable). |
| Airbus A220-300 | Narrowbody | 2-4 | Fleet expansion type. PW1500G engines (reliability issues). Subject to strategic review. |
Fleet data as of early 2026. Numbers are approximate due to ongoing A220 groundings and fleet strategy changes.
The Pratt & Whitney GTF engine issues affecting the A220 fleet are an industry-wide problem, not specific to Cyprus Airways. Pilots joining the airline should be aware that A220 operations may be disrupted, with potential impacts on rostering, scheduling, and type rating investment. The airline has publicly stated the situation is "unsustainable" and has explored legal action against Pratt & Whitney. If Cyprus Airways ultimately pivots to an all-A320 fleet (CEO or NEO), pilots with A220 type ratings may need retraining. This is a material consideration for any pilot evaluating a position at the airline.
Cyprus Airways recruits primarily for the A320 family. First Officers joining the airline are typically assigned to A320 operations. Type rating for the A220 may be provided by the airline or a contracted training organisation for pilots transitioning to that fleet. Given the small fleet size, pilots may fly both types depending on qualification and operational needs. The airline has advertised A220 First Officer positions with type rating provided, indicating willingness to invest in crew conversion.
Pilot Salary & Compensation Breakdown
Cyprus Airways has not publicly disclosed standardized pilot pay scales, which is common among smaller regional carriers. The figures below are estimates based on recruitment advertisements, industry benchmarking data, and comparable carriers operating in the Eastern Mediterranean region. Prospective pilots should verify compensation directly during the recruitment process.
Pilot compensation at European regional carriers typically combines a monthly base salary, an hourly flight rate, per diem allowances for layovers, and (in some cases) productivity or seasonal bonuses. Cyprus operates under a relatively favourable tax regime compared to Western European countries, with a maximum income tax rate of 35% on earnings above €60,000 and social insurance contributions of 8.8% for both employer and employee (capped at €66,612 annually as of 2024). This means that the effective take-home pay in Cyprus can be significantly better than equivalent gross figures in countries like France, Germany, or Belgium.
Estimated First Officer Pay
| Seniority | Monthly Gross (est.) | Annual Gross (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (entry F/O) | €3,500 - €4,500 | ~€42,000 - €54,000 | A320 operations. Comparable to Aegean entry level. |
| Year 3-5 | €4,500 - €5,500 | ~€54,000 - €66,000 | Including flight hour pay and per diems. |
| Senior F/O (5+ yrs) | €5,500 - €7,000 | ~€66,000 - €84,000 | Higher block hours during peak season boost total compensation. |
Estimated Captain Pay
| Seniority | Monthly Gross (est.) | Annual Gross (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry Captain | €7,500 - €9,500 | ~€90,000 - €114,000 | A320 command. |
| Senior Captain (5+ yrs) | €9,500 - €12,000 | ~€114,000 - €144,000 | Highest seniority. Includes all allowances. |
These are editorial estimates based on industry benchmarking against Aegean Airlines, Wizz Air, and other Eastern Mediterranean carriers. Actual figures may differ.
Cyprus Airways does not publicly disclose pilot salary scales. The estimates above are derived from: (1) published salary data for comparable carriers such as Aegean Airlines (F/O base €1,950-€4,750/month, Captain base €3,800-€5,350/month), (2) Wizz Air Hungary data (F/O €3,500-€6,500/month, Captain €9,000-€15,000/month), (3) general European pilot salary surveys indicating junior F/O earnings of ~€56,000 rising to €100,000+ for senior captains. Cyprus's lower cost of living compared to Western European capitals means that these gross figures translate to a relatively comfortable standard of living in Larnaca or Nicosia. Always verify current compensation directly with the airline during the interview process.
Cyprus has one of the more favourable personal tax regimes in the EU. Income up to €19,500 is tax-free, with progressive rates of 20% (€19,501-€28,000), 25% (€28,001-€36,300), 30% (€36,301-€60,000), and 35% above €60,000. Additionally, new tax residents in Cyprus may benefit from a 50% income tax exemption on employment income exceeding €55,000 for up to 17 years under the country's non-domicile (non-dom) regime. This can make Cyprus a very attractive jurisdiction for pilots relocating from higher-tax countries.
Roster Pattern & Quality of Life
Cyprus Airways operates exclusively short- and medium-haul routes from Larnaca, with the longest sectors reaching Paris CDG (~3.5 hours) and Dubai (~4.5 hours). This means all operations are day-return or short layover trips, with pilots returning to base frequently. The airline operates under EASA Flight Time Limitation (FTL) rules, which set the regulatory framework for duty hours, rest periods, and cumulative flying limits.
As a small carrier with a limited fleet, rostering at Cyprus Airways is likely more variable than at larger airlines with predictable patterns. Peak summer season (June to September) sees significantly higher frequencies and longer duty days, while winter operations are quieter, potentially resulting in lower block hours and income. The airline's seasonal network expansion to Greek island destinations (Rhodes, Santorini, Skiathos, Preveza) drives this summer surge.
📅 Sample Month: A320 First Officer (LCA Base, Summer)
The sample roster above is an illustrative estimate based on typical short-haul European operations and EASA FTL regulations. Actual rosters at Cyprus Airways will vary based on seasonal demand, fleet availability (especially given A220 groundings), and seniority. Winter months may feature significantly fewer flying days and more standby or time off.
All Cyprus Airways pilots are based at Larnaca International Airport. There are no alternative bases. Larnaca is a coastal city on the southern shore of Cyprus with a moderate cost of living compared to Western European capitals. Many pilots choose to live in Larnaca itself (close to the airport with a 10-15 minute commute), while others reside in nearby Nicosia (the capital, 45 minutes away) or Limassol (a larger city, 50 minutes away). Cyprus offers over 300 days of sunshine per year, a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle, excellent food, low crime rates, and a strong expat community. English is widely spoken, making integration straightforward for non-Greek-speaking pilots.
Benefits, Travel Perks & Retirement
As an employer in Cyprus, Cyprus Airways must provide all statutory benefits mandated by Cypriot labour law and EU employment directives. The benefits package for pilots at a smaller carrier like Cyprus Airways is typically less comprehensive than those at major legacy airlines, but the strong Cypriot statutory framework provides a solid baseline of protections covering health, pension, and family leave.
Cyprus introduced the General Healthcare System (GeSY) in 2019-2020, providing universal health coverage to all residents and employees. Funded through small payroll contributions, the system covers GP visits, specialist consultations, hospitalization, prescription medications, lab tests, and mental health services. While GeSY provides a strong baseline, many aviation employers in Cyprus supplement it with private health insurance offering enhanced coverage for dental, optical, and specialist treatments. Prospective pilots should inquire about supplementary health benefits during the recruitment process.
Loss of license (LOL) insurance is arguably the most important financial protection a pilot can carry. If a medical condition prevents renewal of the EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate, the pilot's career ends. At smaller carriers, group LOL insurance may not be included in the benefits package or may offer limited coverage. Pilots considering Cyprus Airways are strongly advised to arrange personal LOL insurance through specialized providers. Premiums vary based on age, health history, and coverage level, but typically range from €1,000 to €3,000 per year for meaningful protection.
Career Progression & Seniority
Career progression at Cyprus Airways, like virtually all airlines, is governed by the seniority system. Your position on the seniority list determines everything: schedule preferences, upgrade eligibility, aircraft assignment, and vacation bidding. Time at the current airline is the only factor; years of experience at other carriers count for nothing on the seniority list. This is a universal airline industry principle, but its implications are particularly pronounced at a small carrier like Cyprus Airways.
With an estimated 20 to 30 pilots on the roster and a fleet of 4 to 6 aircraft, the seniority list is short. On the positive side, this means a close-knit crew culture and the opportunity to build strong professional relationships with management and check airmen. On the negative side, upgrade opportunities from First Officer to Captain are inherently limited unless the airline experiences rapid growth. If fleet expansion stalls (as the A220 engine issues have suggested it might), upgrade timelines could extend to many years.
Cyprus Airways does accept direct-entry Captains in its recruitment, unlike strictly internal-promotion carriers such as Air France. This provides a faster path to command for experienced pilots joining from other airlines. However, direct-entry Captains still enter the seniority list at the bottom for scheduling and bidding purposes, regardless of their rank.
| Career Milestone | Estimated Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Join as F/O (A320) | Day 1 | Primary entry fleet. Frozen ATPL or full ATPL required. |
| A220 transition (if applicable) | Variable | Type rating provided. Subject to fleet strategy decisions. |
| Senior F/O | 3-5 years | Improved bidding and scheduling preferences. |
| Captain upgrade (internal) | 5-15+ years | Highly dependent on fleet growth and senior pilot departures. |
| Direct-entry Captain | Day 1 (command) | Available for experienced pilots meeting requirements. |
Cyprus Airways has stated ambitions to grow to 30 destinations and 11 aircraft by 2026, which would require significant pilot recruitment and create genuine upgrade opportunities. However, the A220 engine issues, ownership changes, and the inherent volatility of small-carrier aviation mean these plans carry execution risk. Pilots considering Cyprus Airways should evaluate the career opportunity against the realistic possibility that growth may be slower than projected. At a small carrier, airline-specific risks (financial instability, fleet problems, ownership changes) have a disproportionate impact on individual careers compared to major carriers with larger buffers.
Recruitment Process & Requirements
Cyprus Airways recruits pilots on a rolling basis through its corporate careers page and through specialized aviation job boards including PilotsGlobal, Latest Pilot Jobs, and Pilot Assessments. The airline primarily seeks experienced pilots with existing type ratings, though it has also advertised positions with type rating provided (notably for the A220). There is no dedicated cadet programme; Cyprus Airways focuses on externally trained pilots who already hold CPL/ATPL qualifications.
Minimum Requirements
Selection Stages
Online Application
Submit CV, license copies, medical certificate, and English proficiency documentation through the Cyprus Airways careers portal or the relevant job board. Ensure all EASA credentials are current and clearly documented.
Screening & Technical Assessment
Initial review of credentials and flight experience. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a technical knowledge assessment covering aircraft systems, performance, and standard operating procedures relevant to the A320 or A220.
Interview
Interview with operations management covering technical competence, CRM skills, motivation, and cultural fit. Given the small team size, expect a more personal interview format than at larger carriers. The airline values flexibility and adaptability.
Simulator Assessment (if applicable)
Some recruitment campaigns include a simulator check, particularly for direct-entry Captain positions. This typically involves normal and non-normal procedures in the A320 simulator.
Background Check & Contract
Successful candidates undergo security and background checks as required by EASA and Cypriot aviation regulations. Upon clearance, a formal employment contract is issued. Type rating training (if needed) follows, provided by the airline or a contracted ATO.
While Cyprus Airways does not operate a cadet programme, aspiring pilots can train in Cyprus through organizations such as the Cyprus Airways Flying Academy and CAFA Flying Training Center. Both offer PPL through ATPL training under EASA regulations. These academies serve as informal talent pipelines for island-based carriers, though there is no formal affiliation or guaranteed employment pathway with Cyprus Airways. The EASA licensing framework applies uniformly across all EU member states, so licenses earned in Cyprus are fully portable throughout Europe.
How Cyprus Airways Compares: Airline Radar Chart
How does Cyprus Airways stack up against two comparable carriers in the Eastern Mediterranean and European regional space? Below is a comparative analysis against Aegean Airlines (Greece's flag carrier and Star Alliance member) and Wizz Air (Europe's largest ultra-low-cost carrier operating extensively in the region). Scores are editorial estimates based on publicly available data, industry benchmarks, and pilot feedback.
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
Aegean Airlines dominates across most metrics. As Greece's flag carrier with 76 aircraft, Star Alliance membership, 10 bases, and established pilot pay scales (F/O up to €4,750/month, Captain up to €5,350/month base), Aegean offers a fundamentally different career proposition. Pilots at Aegean benefit from a larger seniority list (more upgrade opportunities), a more diverse route network, stronger staff travel benefits via Star Alliance, and greater job security backed by the airline's profitable operations and 12.5+ million annual passengers.
Wizz Air offers higher salary potential but at the cost of quality of life. Wizz Air Captains can earn €9,000 to €15,000 per month, significantly above Cyprus Airways estimates. However, the ultra-low-cost model demands high productivity: tight turnarounds, maximum roster utilization, and limited flexibility. Work-life balance scores reflect the aggressive scheduling typical of ULCCs. Wizz Air's rapid expansion does provide faster upgrade timelines compared to a small stable carrier like Cyprus Airways.
Cyprus Airways's strengths are lifestyle and opportunity. For pilots who value living in a Mediterranean island setting with low taxes, sunshine, and a small-team culture, Cyprus Airways offers something the larger carriers cannot match. The Larnaca base provides an exceptional quality of life outside of work. The airline's growth plans, if realized, could create early-mover advantages for pilots who join during the expansion phase. However, the smaller fleet, uncertain growth trajectory, and limited network mean higher career risk.
Scores are editorial estimates based on publicly available salary data, pilot testimonials, airline financial reports, fleet data, and industry benchmarks. They represent a general assessment for an experienced pilot evaluating a long-term career. Individual experiences vary significantly based on seniority, personal priorities, and market conditions. Cyprus Airways scores reflect the inherent limitations of a small, recently established carrier alongside the genuine lifestyle advantages of its Larnaca base and Cyprus's favourable tax environment.
Union & Industrial Relations
Pilot representation in Cyprus falls under the Pancyprian Airline Pilots Union (PASYPI), the primary collective bargaining organization for professional airline pilots on the island. PASYPI is headquartered in Strovolos, Nicosia (7 Sapfous, Strovolos 2007, Nicosia, Cyprus; +357 2251 5334) and has historically represented Cyprus Airways pilots in negotiations with management over compensation, working conditions, and contractual protections.
The union has a documented track record of advocacy, particularly during the turbulent final years of the original Cyprus Airways. In 2009, PASYPI negotiated a collective agreement covering pilot working conditions. In 2011, the union participated in the rescue plan negotiations that included 9% pay cuts across the company. In 2014, PASYPI initiated legal action against the airline's decision to reduce pilot pension contributions. These historical events relate to the original Cyprus Airways (which ceased operations in January 2015), not the current entity.
Information about PASYPI's current relationship with the relaunched Cyprus Airways (operating since 2016 under SJC Group ownership) is limited in publicly available sources. The absence of high-profile labour disputes may indicate either stable industrial relations or simply the reduced media attention typical of smaller airlines. Given the small pilot contingent (estimated 20 to 30), labour relations are likely more personal and less formal than at major carriers with thousands of pilots.
Prospective Cyprus Airways pilots should contact PASYPI directly (phone: +357 2251 5334) before accepting a position to understand current collective bargaining agreements, contractual protections, and union structure. At a small carrier, union membership and active participation are particularly important as individual pilots have less bargaining power outside a collective framework. Union dues, representation in grievance procedures, and access to legal support are all standard benefits of membership. Given the limited public information about current labour relations, direct inquiry is the most reliable path to understanding the real working environment.
Verdict: Who Is Cyprus Airways For?
🎯 Our Take
Cyprus Airways is a niche opportunity in European aviation. It is not a career destination in the same way that Air France, Lufthansa, or even Aegean Airlines might be. It is, however, a genuinely interesting option for specific types of pilots at specific career stages.
The airline offers direct entry for qualified pilots (no multi-year cadet queues), an Airbus fleet operating modern equipment, a base in one of Europe's most pleasant and tax-friendly locations, and the chance to be part of a small, growing operation where individual contributions are visible and valued. The Aegean codeshare and ACMI operations add variety beyond the standard Cyprus Airways network.
The trade-offs are significant. Compensation is likely below larger carriers and possibly below low-cost competitors. The fleet is small and has been plagued by A220 engine issues. Career progression is limited by the tiny pilot contingent. Job security carries small-carrier risk: ownership changes (S7 to SJC Group), fleet strategy pivots, and seasonal revenue volatility are all real factors. There is no alliance membership, limiting staff travel. And the single Larnaca base means no geographic flexibility.
For pilots who prioritize lifestyle, tax efficiency, Mediterranean living, and the entrepreneurial energy of a growing small airline, Cyprus Airways is worth serious consideration. For those who prioritize maximum compensation, career progression speed, or long-term stability, larger carriers will likely serve better.
1 Do I need to speak Greek to fly for Cyprus Airways?
No. Cyprus Airways recruitment advertisements specify ICAO English Level 4 minimum as the language requirement. Greek language proficiency is not listed as a mandatory requirement, and flight operations are conducted in English per international aviation standards. That said, basic Greek would be helpful for daily life in Cyprus and for interactions with ground staff and passengers. English is widely spoken across Cyprus, so non-Greek speakers can integrate comfortably.
2 Does Cyprus Airways provide type rating training?
It depends on the position. Some recruitment campaigns (particularly for the A220) have advertised positions with type rating provided. For A320 positions, the airline typically prefers candidates with existing type ratings. Prospective applicants should check the specific job posting for details on whether type rating is included or required upfront.
3 What is the upgrade time from F/O to Captain?
There is no published upgrade timeline. At a small carrier with fewer than 30 pilots and 4 to 6 aircraft, upgrade depends entirely on fleet growth, senior pilot departures, and operational expansion. If the airline achieves its target of 11 aircraft by 2026, upgrade opportunities would accelerate significantly. If growth stalls, the wait could extend to a decade or more. Direct-entry Captain positions are available for experienced pilots, bypassing the internal upgrade queue.
4 Can non-EU citizens apply?
Cyprus Airways requires applicants to have the right to live and work in the EU. In practice, this means EU/EEA/Swiss citizenship or an existing valid work permit for Cyprus. The airline does not sponsor work visas for non-EU pilots. Cyprus is an EU member state, so any EU citizen can work there without additional permits.
5 What happened with the A220 fleet issues?
The Pratt & Whitney PW1500G geared turbofan engines powering the A220 have experienced global reliability problems, affecting Cyprus Airways and many other operators (airBaltic, SWISS, Air Austral, EgyptAir). Extended groundings, parts shortages, and unpredictable maintenance timelines have forced Cyprus Airways to evaluate a pivot back to the A320 family (CEO and NEO variants). As of late 2025, the airline's fleet strategy remains under review. This situation creates operational disruption but also potential opportunity, as the airline actively recruits to maintain and expand its A320 operations.
6 Is Cyprus Airways financially stable?
Cyprus Airways reported a revenue surge in 2023 despite regional instability. The airline is backed by the SJC Group (Malta), which provides financial support and operational expertise. However, as a small carrier without alliance membership or substantial cash reserves, the airline is more vulnerable to economic downturns, fuel price spikes, and operational disruptions than larger competitors. The original Cyprus Airways collapsed in 2015 after the EU found state aid to be illegal, a reminder of the financial fragility inherent in small flag carriers. Prospective pilots should factor this risk into their career planning.
7 What is the cost of living in Larnaca?
Larnaca is significantly more affordable than Western European capitals. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre rents for approximately €500 to €800 per month. Groceries, dining out, and transport are all below Western European averages. The combination of lower living costs and Cyprus's favourable tax regime (including the non-dom exemption for new residents) means that a pilot salary at Cyprus Airways, while lower in gross terms than at major carriers, can provide a comfortable Mediterranean lifestyle. Many expat pilots also enjoy the island's beaches, outdoor activities, and social scene.
8 How does Cyprus Airways compare to Aegean Airlines?
Aegean Airlines is a substantially larger operation: 76 aircraft, 10 bases, Star Alliance membership, and published pay scales (F/O base up to €4,750/month, Captain up to €5,350/month). Aegean offers superior career progression, stronger staff travel benefits, better job security, and a more diverse route network. Cyprus Airways offers the lifestyle advantage of a Cyprus base with lower taxes, a smaller and more personal work environment, and potentially faster direct-entry opportunities for experienced pilots. The two carriers have a codeshare partnership and ACMI relationship, creating some operational overlap.
Official Links & Resources
Before applying or making any career decisions, always verify information directly with official sources. These are the key websites and organisations relevant to Cyprus Airways pilot careers:
Set up job alerts on PilotsGlobal (pilotsglobal.com) and Latest Pilot Jobs (latestpilotjobs.com) filtered for Cyprus Airways to receive notifications when new pilot positions are advertised. Recruitment at small carriers is often sporadic rather than continuous, so early application is important. Also contact PASYPI (the Pancyprian Airline Pilots Union, phone: +357 2251 5334, address: 7 Sapfous, Strovolos 2007, Nicosia) before accepting any offer to understand the current collective agreement and working conditions from the pilot perspective.
